Alisson’s ongoing competition with Ederson for the starting goalkeeper position in the Brazilian national team continues, as emphasized by Brazil’s interim manager. Despite being part of the Seleção’s squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia and Peru, Alisson did not feature in either of the matches.
This situation follows Alisson’s surprising exclusion from Brazil’s 23-man squad during the previous mid-season international break in March, a decision that even caught Ederson off guard. Previously designated as the No.1 goalkeeper for the World Cup in Qatar by former national team coach Tite, Alisson now faces the challenge of proving himself to the temporary boss, Fernando Diniz, in order to secure the undisputed first-choice position.
During a recent press conference, Diniz shed light on his perspective regarding the goalkeeper dilemma, expressing his willingness to let the two Premier League shot-stoppers continue to present him with a selection conundrum.
“I don’t know. I don’t have that statement from Tite, because Ederson also played some games. I think it’s always difficult. It was also difficult for Tite,” he explained.
“I think both are among the three best goalkeepers in the world, so it’s always hard for you to make an assessment and decide. Any time, any of them can play.
“But, specifically, including Perri, Bento, Weverton, among others. But those two [Alisson and Ederson], they have been playing at a very high level for a long time.
“Then it’s a matter of feeling the moment for you to decide. Right now, we’re going to start with Ederson, but it’s a dispute that will always be open.”
